Great Plates to Fill A Great Need

As COVID-19 continues to threaten the health of vulnerable populations, food security, employment, and small businesses, the Great Plates Delivered Program delivers on providing relief and hope in all these aspects. Recognizing the positive impact this program is having on the community, Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas visited Sage Plant Based Bistro in Culver City to shine a light on the restaurant’s contributions to the community and this important program.

Los Angeles County’s Great Plates Delivered Program is helping residents who are elderly or have pre-existing conditions, or heightened vulnerability to COVID-19, and might be fearful of or face barriers to visiting grocery stores. That’s where Sage Plant Based Bistro comes in. Sage is now participating in the first-in-the-nation program, launched by Governor Gavin Newsom as a meal delivery service for California’s older adults. The County of Los Angeles administers this program locally as a partnership between the Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services (WDACS) Department and Unite Here, and Local 11’s Hospitality Training Academy (HTA).

“With more than one million meals delivered since the program started in late April, it’s safe to say tens of thousands who would have been at-risk for contracting this virus were kept out of harm’s way,” said Supervisor Ridley-Thomas. “In addition to providing an essential economic stimulus to local businesses struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 crisis.”

“Thanks to the Great Plate program, we have been able to stay afloat and bring our coworkers back. As a result, they too can provide for their families. And are able to at least have the basics,” said Luna Sanchez Kitchen Manager at Sage Plant Based Bistro and Brewery.

WDACS provides three meals a day to 1,500 individuals across Los Angeles County by utilizing HTA’s network of hotels and commercial kitchens. The County has recently expanded the program to include local restaurants.

“They are very appreciative and love the food, some of them are not vegan and wouldn’t have tried this food if it wasn’t for this program.” said Luna Sanchez, Kitchen Manager at Sage Plant Based Bistro and Brewery. “It has helped people open their eyes to some other healthier options.”

For those in need of food and not able to afford groceries, please visit www.lafoodbank.org to find the food pantry nearest you.